joeD

I agree. When Kohner first started to develop the area, there was no fence underneath 47, and one could still access the river. I was under the impression that the area just underneath the bridge was public too, just like the road. I didn't think a private citizen or corporation could deny access in a public area.?! Money and a loud voice win.

Yes, these are the reasons why I'm asking about the Mineral. We're all talking about it in the past tense. When I was fishing it alot, I'd have Pat at Rivermont (I have a few stories about her and that campground, by the way) take me to Hazel's or F and float down to 47. Just great fishing. Even on Friday afternoons floating past Rivermont with Lynrd Skynrd blaring, Busch beer flowing, tatoos glistening (on the women) I'd still catch 16"-19" fish. The Mineral was usually just a springtime destination for me, I'd move on to other streams by June. Now I'm usually on the upper Meramec in the early spring, but with all the water, I haven't been at all. I talked to Skip at Green's Canoe Rental recently, and he said the upper Meramec (Short Bend to Hwy 8) isn't clearing out as fast as in years past. Too much water, too often. Anyway, that's why I'm curious about the Mineral. It was usually good to go pretty quickly after a rain event. Al- How did you put at 47? Throw the canoe over the fence? Did you leave your vehicle on the shoulder of the bridge(east side usually)? There used to be "NO Parking" signs there. And Na Zdarovye! to you too Gavin.

Thanks. Please do. Joe

Brian- What is "quite some time?" Month's? Years? I haven't floated it since John Pyzyk (R.I.P) and Kohner Properties bought everything around it a few years ago. For awhile it was one of the best streams around for both numbers and size. My friends and I hit it hard for a few years while the fishing was hot. But after the developments, I haven't really fished it or heard of anyone that has. (I'm talking about smallies by the way).

Just curious. Has anyone been on the Mineral Fork lately?

As of right now the Current is up 5 ft..at Mauntauk..that's a big number for that area. The I-44 corridor is getting pounded, with many counties under flood watches. I doubt that any stream, trout or smallie, will be fishable this week. However, if you wanna catch fish, get a spinning rod with 6 or 8 lb. test, tie on a big jerkbait - suspending rogues, husky jerk, x-rap, pointers- go to the White River, stay in cabin at one of the many resorts there, hire a guide, and get out on the water. Generation doesn't matter. I've caught fish w/ 8 generators going. Bring your fly-rod too, if they're not generating ( to wade fish). You can also fly fish out of a boat with a lot of water running, it'll just be a liittle different - generally flinging weighted SJ worms. Clueless regarding IA. Good luck.

You might want to call Green Mill Canoe Rental and Campground ( I think, if they're still in business). They're right on the Little Niangua and he/they could tell you river conditions if you're unfamiliar with the gauge readings at the USGS site. Also, if you don't already own these, purchase "A Paddlers Guide to Missouri" and the " Missouri Conservation Atlas," both published by the MDC and the DeLorme Atlas and Gazeteer, available at many outdoor shops and tackle stores. These will give you access points, road crossings, the Paddler's Guide will give you river mileages, creek names, etc. The Conservation Department also publishes a fishing prospects pamphlet to give you a rough idea what to expect on certain rivers (although I don't know if the LN is included). I also believe that if one CAN go fishing, one SHOULD. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. You have to get out there and do it, regardless.

Thank you. Given my size, I guess I'm a "lunker" lurker.

I am no longer a "lurker". This ozark angler will now post.